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Steven J. Topazio
also known as Law Office of Steven J Topazio
About Steven
Biography
With more than 30 years of trial experience in the area of criminal law, Attorney Topazio has become a well-qualified criminal defense lawyer whose professional skills have become equally suited to the resolution of both criminal as well as personal injury law. Though felony or misdemeanor defense and negligence litigation involve entirely different legal principles and procedural rules, there are many parallels between them that tap into the same skill set and client service values that Attorney Topazio has developed. Both involve the protection of individual rights against powerful institutions — government prosecutors and insurance companies and both often depend on your lawyer's skill with handling evidence — facts relating to guilt or innocence in the former, and facts relating to liability and damages in the latter. Boston Criminal Lawyer Steven J. Topazio has adopted a tough and aggressive approach to solving cases which delivers the highest legal representation you can obtain anywhere in Massachusetts.
Practice Areas
6
Practice Areas
Criminal Defense
32%
40 years | 2,550 cases
DUI and DWI
20%
1,912 cases
Violent Crime
20%
1,275 cases
Fees and Rates
Cost
Hourly Rates
$ 350-400 per hour
Contingency
33%-45%
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
- Credit Card
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Chat withLicenses
Licensed in New Jersey for 39 years
State: New Jersey
Acquired: 1986
No misconduct found
Licensed in Massachusetts for 39 years
State: Massachusetts
Acquired: 1986
No misconduct found
Location
Law Office of Steven J. Topazio
Suite 1000C, 44 School Street, Boston, MA, 02108
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Steven J. Topazio's Reviews
Showing 1 - 5 of 60 client reviews from Avvo
Posted by Kanako | December 24, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Calm, Skilled, and Effective—Best Decision I Made
Steven is top-notch. He helped me navigate three traffic citations after I’d just moved to the area, where the rules and driving norms can be different from what I was used to. I made a mistake under pressure and ended up with three tickets. I found Steven through ChatGPT—and I’m genuinely glad I ...
Posted by anonymous | March 12, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Thank you Steven!
I have nothing but great things to say about Steven. He is highly experienced, and extremely professional. He is very responsive, very knowledgable, and incredibly intelligent. He made the process very smooth and I am thankful for Steven. I highly recommend Steven to anyone in need of representation....
Posted by anonymous | November 29, 2023 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Straight shooter, no BS.
Sometimes in life things that are our of your control happen, and you find yourself on the wrong end of a criminal case. If this ever happens, do not leave your future up to chance. Find someone who will fight for you til the end. Attorney Steven J. Topazio is that person. From the first phone ca...
Posted by anonymous | November 16, 2023 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
"Vincit Omnia Veritas"
Appearance, punctuality, speech, and knowledge. Further, Truth... As a vet, I would compare him to a USMC Grunt. He tells you exactly what you're getting into (Tells it, how it is). He knows his trade and not only does he walk the walk, he will represent you with confidence, without a skip or stutter...
Posted by Gabriel | August 25, 2023 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
SHAPE SHOOTER
Straight forward I been using Steve for years , this man has never let me down from all type of charges assaults drugs has never let me down , family man this man does not judge or play them games these little lawyers play , all 8 can say from a young brother this dude is a beast , he will not let yo...
Steven J. Topazio's Lawyer Endorsements
"Simply said, Steven is an outstanding DUI attorney. Highly recommended!"
"Attorney Topazio is a dedicated, highly-skilled lawyer well-respected within the legal community. I fully endorse him."
"This attorney has great determination and drive. I endorse this lawyer."
"Steven is a savvy and zealous advocate for his clients."
"Attorney Topazio has earned the respect of his fellow attorneys and clients through his tireless efforts to provide exceptional legal services."
"I endorse this lawyer. He is an excellent criminal defense attorney. He is very well respected in the legal community."
"I endorse this lawyer. He is highly skilled and well respected."
"Steve is one of the finest criminal defense attorneys in Boston, I highly recommend his legal services."
"I endorse Steven. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Topazio is a thorough, thoughtful, tough, and aggressive defense attorney. I would not hesitate to have him represent a friend or family member."
"I fully endorse Attorney Topazio. We had many cases against each other in the Chelsea District Court when I was an ADA. I found Attorney Topazio to always be prepared, intelligent and a powerful and zealous advocate for all of his clients. He has also been a trusted advisor to me in my private practice. I highly recommend him to anyone in need of his services."
"I endorse this lawyer. Steven is the best criminal defense lawyer in the greater Boston area. We send him any criminal case we are conflicted out of and he does a terrific job. He's a truly gifted courtroom advocate."
"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Attorney Topazio for close to twenty years and have worked with him as co-counsel on many difficult criminal cases. He is a highly intelligent lawyer with an innate ability to get to the core of issues and develop a sound strategy for an excellent defense. He is a very impressive, skilled and affable member of the Massachusetts Bar."
"I have had the privilige of working with Mr. Topazio and can attest to his excellent litigation skills. He is very persuasive on behalf of his clients and has the utmost respect from the Judges, Prosecutors and his fellow attorneys. He is a great lawyer to have on your side."
"It is a honor and privilege to endorse attorney Steven Topazio. Steven is highly respected among his peers within the legal profession. I admire his dedication and committment to the practice of law. In addition, Steven is always willing to provide assitance when called upon. On many occasions Steven has provided me with valuable advice in regards to developing a solid trial strategy. His knowledge, intellect and creative mind is second to none in the field of law, especially, in the area of criminal defense."
"I have known Attorney Topazio for about five years. I see him in court on a regular basis. Attorney Topazio is always prepared and always works to obtain the best result for his client. Steve and I have represented co defendants in several cases. On each occasion he has provided excellent representation to his clients. I would welcome the opportunity to work with Attorney Topazio in the future."
"Steven takes a genuine interest in his clients and works hard to advocate for them. His record of success speaks for itself."
"I endorse this lawyer. Steven is an incredibly hard working, results oriented attorney with an outstanding reputation and track record. He cares about his clients and devotes large amounts of time and energy to each and every case that he handles."
"I endorse this lawyer. We have practiced in many of the same courts for years. Attorney Topazio is always well-prepared and a zealous advocate."
"I have known Steve on a professional and personal level for 25 years. He is hardworking, prepared, knows the law, is respected by judges and prosecutors and has great trial skills. I give him my highest endorsement."
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Experience
Honors
2025
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2024
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2024
Client Champion Award, Martindale-Hubbell
2023
Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers
2023
AV Peer Review Rating, Martindale-Hubbell
2022
Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers
2022
AV Peer Review Rating, Martindale-Hubbell
2021
AV Peer Review Rating, Martindale-Hubbell
2021
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2020
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2019
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2018
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2017
AV Preeminent Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
2017
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2017
Massachusetts Super Lawyers, Thomson Reuters
2016
AV Preeminent Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
2016
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2016
Massachusetts Super Lawyers, Thomson Reuters
2015
Massachusetts Super Lawyers, Thomson Reuters
2015
AV Preeminent Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
2015
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2014
AV Preeminent Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
2013
Client's Choice Award, Avvo
2013
The Registry™ of Business and Professional Excellence, American Registry LLC
2013
AV Preeminent Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
2013
Top Contributor, Avvo
2012
AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
2011
AV Preeminent Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
1985
Law Review, New England School of Law
1982
Phi Beta Kappa National Honor Society, Phi Beta Kappa Society
1982
Chair's Special Merit Award, Dr. Joseph George
1982
Magna Cum Laude, Villanova University
Work Experience
1990 - Present
Principal, Law Office Of Steven J. Topazio
1986 - 1990
Associate, DiMasi, Donabed & Karll
1985 - 1986
Special Commission of Uniform Sentencing, House Of Representatives
Associations
2014 - Present
National College of DUI DefenseMember
2014 - Present
National Trial Lawyers AssociationMember
2012 - Present
American Society of Legal AdvocatesMember
2012 - Present
National Association of Criminal Defense LawyersMember
2012 - Present
Massachusetts Association of Criminal Defense LawyersMember
2010 - Present
American Bar AssociationMember
1990 - Present
Massachusetts Bar AssociationMember
1990 - Present
Suffolk Lawyers for JusticeMember
1986 - 1987
Association for Trial Lawyers of AmericaMember
Sample of Legal Cases
Seal criminal records M.G.L. c. 276, § 100A
Criminal Record Permanently Sealed.
Clerk Magistrate Hearing - Boston Massachusetts
Case dismissed.
Application for Criminal Complaint
Case dismissed.
Resisting Arrest M.G.L. c. 268 § 32B
Case Dismissed.
Speeding Traffic Hearing - Boston, Massachusetts
Not Responsible.
Larceny from Building M.G.L. c. 266 § 20
Client receives a CWOF and probation after dismissal of seven counts.
Trespassing M.G.L. c. 266 § 120
Case Dismissed.
Probation Surrender - Larceny from a Person M.G.L. c. 266 § 30
Client released from custody and disposition of CWOF renewed.
Motion to Seal M.G.L. c. 276 § 100A
Record permanently sealed.
Payment for Sexual Conduct M.G.L. c. 272 § 53A
Case Dismissed.
Malicious Destruction of Property M.G.L. c. 266 § 127
Case Dismissed and probation renewed to original date.
OUI DUI Hardship License - Boston, Massachusetts
Work hardship license granted subject to interlock restrictions.
Probation Surrender - Boston, Massachusetts
Detainer lifted and Client re-probated and released from custody.
Clerk Magistrate Hearing - Boston Attorney
Case Dismissed.
Civil Motor Vehicle Infraction - Fail to Stop or Yield, M.G.L. c. 89 § 9
Case Dismissed.
Application for Criminal Complaint, Clerk Magistrate Hearing Boston
Cocaine Possession Charge Dismissed.
Motion to Seal Criminal Records, Massachusetts CORI
Criminal Record Permanently Sealed.
Sealing Criminal Records - Boston, Massachusetts Attorney
Case Permanently Sealed.
Sex Offender Fail to Register, M.G.L. c. 6 § 178H
Probation renewed to original date and Client released from custody.
Speeding Ticket Defense, M.G.L. c. 90 § 18
Case Dismissed.
Probation Surrender - Warrant - Boston Lawyer
Client avoids a two year commitment as recommended by probation and receives a nine month sentence.
Motion to Seal Criminal Records - Expungment
Case Permanently Sealed.
Five year License Suspension for Breathalyzer Refusal reduced to 180 days
Five year suspension vacated and reduced to 180 days and Client immediately became eligible for a work hardship license.
Operating without a license - Operating Negligently - Boston Attorney
Warrant recalled and case to be dismissed upon payment of court costs in lieu of client having to return to Massachusetts and facing trial.
OUI DUI DWI Boston Criminal Attorney
Three year suspension vacated and reduced to 180 days.
Motor Vehicle Ticket Boston Lawyer
Case Dismissed.
Assault and Battery with a Dangerous Weapon Boston Lawyer
Case Dismissed at Trial.
Assault and Battery with Dangerous Weapon M.G.L. c. 265 § 15(A)(B)
Case Dismissed.
Possession Class D Drug, Marijuana M.G.L. c. 94C § 34
Case Dismissed.
Traffic Ticket Appeal Boston Lawyer
Case dismissed.
Larceny Under $250 M.G.L. c. 266 § 30(1)
Complaint Dismissed prior to arraignment.
Clerk's Hearing - Shoplifting by Asportation M.G.L. c. 266 § 30A
Application for Complaint Dismissed.
Traffic Ticket Appeal Boston Attorney
Case dismissed.
Threat to Commit Crime MGL c. 275 § 2
Trial avoided and complaint to be dismissed on condition that the client keeps the peace.
Distribution of Class D (marijuana) M.G.L. c. 94C § 32C
Complaint not issued and will be dismissed in one year provided client stays out of trouble.
Straight Warrant Boston Attorney
Warrant recalled and case to be dismissed prior to arraignment if Commonwealth reports that case is not viable in lieu of client having to return to Massachusetts and being arraigned on the charges.
Restraining Order MGL c. 209A False Allegations Boston Attorney
Restraining Order Vacated.
Clerk Magistrate's Hearing - Larceny over $250 MGL c. 266 § 30
Application for Complaint Dismissed.
Witness Intimidation MGL c. 268 § 13B - Boston Defense Lawyer
Motion to Dismiss allowed and witness intimidation count dismissed.
Credit Card Fraud under $250 M.G.L. c. 266 § 37(b)
Warrant recalled and case to be dismissed upon payment of court costs in lieu of client having to return to Massachusetts and facing a probation surrender hearing.
Attempted Murder M.G.L. c. 265 § 16
All charges dismissed.
Shoplifting by Concealing Merchandise M.G.L. c. 266 § 30A
After the period of pre-trial probation, the charges will be dismissed provided the Client obeys all state and local laws.
B & E Nighttime for Felony M.G.L. c. 266 § 16
All felony charges reduced to misdemeanor charges and client avoids committed time and convictions on his record by receiving CWOF on each of the reduced counts.
Possession With Intent to Distribute Class D Marijuana
All charges dismissed except Possession with intent charge where Client receives a CWOF and thus avoids a conviction on his record and is allowed to return to California unsupervised.
OUI – Liquor or .08% M.G.L. c. 90 § 24(1)(a)(1)
All charges dismissed except OUI charge where Client receives a CWOF and thus avoids a conviction on his record.
Aggravated Assault and Battery M.G.L. c. 265 § 13A
At trial, evidence is excluded and the client avoids jail by tendering a plea to a reduced charge of Simple Assault and Battery and receives a suspended sentence.
Motion to Seal CORI M.G.L. c. 276, § 100A
Case Permanently Sealed.
OUI - Liquor M.G.L. c. 90 § 24 - Boston Criminal Lawyer
Not Guilty after trial on OUI charge, with guilty probation on reckless operation charge.
Utter False Prescription M.G.L. c. 94C § 33(b)
Client avoids a conviction and jail time and the charges will be dismissed if she successfully completes her probation protecting her CORI.
Indecent A&B on person 14 or over, M.G.L. c. 265 § 13H
Case dismissed at trial.
Domestic Assault and Battery - Mass. Gen. Laws ch 265, § 13A
Case Dismissed.
Grand Jury Subpoena: Fifth Amendment Privilege: Spousal Privilege Mass. Gen. Laws ch 233, § 20
Spouse not required to testify against her husband at grand jury.
Disorderly Conduct M.G.L. c. 272 § 53
Case dismissed prior to arraignment thus preventing any entry on his client’s criminal record.
Shoplifting by Price Tag Tampering, M.G.L. c. 266 § 30A
Case to be dismissed on payment of court costs and record protected.
Motion to Seal Criminal Records M.G.L. c. 276, § 100C
Case Permanently Sealed.
Education
1985
New England School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
1982
Villanova University
BA - Bachelor of Arts
Speaking Engagements
2014
Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc.
Successfully Defending OUI Cases
2013
Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc.
Successfully Defending an OUI Case
2005
New England School of Law: Legal Writing Course
The consequences of the elimination of De Novo Appeals on District Court practice
N/A
Massachusetts Basic Practice manuel
Suaseccessfully defending an OUI case
Publications
2012
The Suit Magazine
Law Remains Passion
1985
New England Law Review
Loss of Consortium Under the Massachusetts No-Fault Motor Vehicle Liability Insurance Act
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Guides
Legal Answers
Q&A
Should I request time served for the year I served before my release on bail, take the 1year probation or go all the way?
19 Mar 2023
Q&A
I was convicted of a DUI in New Hampshire seven years ago. Will the conviction appear on a FBI NCIC fingerprint check?
12 May 2014
Q&A
Once the court ordered Capias for the defendant, isnt he supposed to be arrested?
12 May 2014
Legal Guides
Legal Guide
Common Personal Injury Actions
22 Apr 2011
Legal Guide
What is Plea Bargaining?
15 Mar 2011
Legal Guide
What is a Probable Cause Hearing?
14 Mar 2011